FireDome appoints Dr Lori Moore-Merrell to its advisory board

FireDome has announced that Dr Lori Moore-Merrell, former United States Fire Administrator, has joined its advisory board.

As reported by FireDome, Dr Moore-Merrell brings more than 30 years of experience in public safety leadership.

She has worked in senior roles across federal government and international organisations, specialising in strategic planning, emergency response, big data analytics, and translating fire safety research into policy.

Wildfire system based on defence technologies

FireDome is developing an autonomous system to defend against wildfires using technology based on Israel’s Iron Dome air defence system.

The company’s approach involves two main elements.

A mechanical launcher deploys fire retardant capsules to build a barrier against spreading wildfires.

Simultaneously, AI-powered computer vision identifies and extinguishes spot fires started by embers that pass the barrier.

The solution is designed to operate independently of water and power infrastructure and is intended for use in remote or off-grid locations.

Dr Moore-Merrell highlights potential benefits to US communities

In a statement, Dr Moore-Merrell said: “I’m deeply impressed with FireDome’s innovative approach and the remarkable progress the team has achieved thus far.

“I believe U.S. communities, policy makers, property owners, utility officials, and fire chiefs will recognize FireDome as a transformative technology that can significantly enhance wildfire protection.

“Fully implemented, FireDome will provide large scale wildfire defense solutions and ensure community resilience and sustainability in the years ahead.”

Her previous work includes advising senior staff at the White House and working with cabinet officials and industry leaders to improve firefighter operational practices.

Advisory board includes international expertise

Dr Moore-Merrell joins other members of FireDome’s advisory board, including Seth Schalet, CEO of the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council, Brig.

Gen. (Ret) Pinhas Yungman of Israel’s defence sector, Gabriel Gross, a parametric insurance specialist based in France, and Lior Libman, an entrepreneur with expertise in artificial intelligence and high-growth startups.

FireDome CEO and co-founder Gadi Benjamini said: “Dr. Moore-Merrell’s deep knowledge of fire science, emergency response, and data-driven risk assessment aligns perfectly with FireDome’s mission to create an innovative, autonomous wildfire defense solution.

“Her leadership experience will be instrumental in helping us bring a practical and effective fire prevention system to market and fulfill FireDome’s vision of enhancing community safety from wildfires.”

Dr Lori Moore-Merrell joins FireDome advisory board to support wildfire defence system: Summary

FireDome has appointed Dr Lori Moore-Merrell to its advisory board.

Dr Moore-Merrell is the former United States Fire Administrator and has more than 30 years of experience in emergency response, policy development, and public safety data analysis.

She has advised at the highest levels of government and worked internationally on fire safety issues.

FireDome is developing an autonomous wildfire defence system that uses a mechanical launcher to deploy fire retardant and AI-powered technology to detect and extinguish embers.

The system operates without the need for local power or water infrastructure.

FireDome’s advisory board also includes experts from defence, insurance, technology, and public safety sectors.

The company is collaborating with initial users to test and improve the system.

FireDome aims to offer large-scale wildfire defence capability through automated, data-supported technologies.